Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care
About Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care
Scrivens is one of the UK's largest independent optician and hearing care chains, with over 160 branches and a heritage stretching back to 1938. Family-owned for over 85 years, they offer both NHS and private hearing aids alongside full optical services, with a particularly strong presence in the Midlands.
Scrivens was founded in 1938 by Solomon Scriven in the West Midlands, beginning as a small optician practice serving the local community. The business grew steadily through the post-war period, and hearing care services were added in the early 1950s, making Scrivens one of the first UK optical chains to offer combined eye and hearing care.
Over the decades, Scrivens expanded both organically and through acquisitions, including Melson Wingate, Ronald Brown Opticians, and the Owl Group. The hearing division was once separately branded as 'The Hearing Company' but was brought back under the Scrivens name in 2014 to strengthen brand recognition. The company has remained family-owned throughout its history, now spanning over 85 years.
Today, Scrivens operates from over 160 branches across the UK, with a particularly strong presence in the Midlands where its roots lie. It provides hearing care services in around 300 outlets including partner locations in independent practices and medical centres. Scrivens holds NHS contracts for hearing aid provision in several regions, making it one of the few large independent chains to offer both NHS and private hearing care alongside comprehensive optical services.
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 1938
- UK Locations
- 160
- Price Range
- Free (NHS) / £495–£2,500+ (private)
- NHS Hearing Tests
- Yes
- Services Offered
- 8
Book a hearing test
Scrivens Services & Pricing
A full breakdown of hearing care services available at Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care, including prices, duration, and NHS coverage information.
| Service | Description | Price | Duration | NHS Covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free Hearing Test | A comprehensive hearing assessment conducted by a qualified hearing care professional. Includes examination of the ears, pure tone audiometry, and a detailed discussion of results with recommendations. No obligation to purchase. | Free | 30 minutes | |
| NHS Hearing Aids | Digital behind-the-ear hearing aids provided free through the NHS where Scrivens holds a local contract. Includes fitting, follow-up care, batteries, and ongoing servicing at no cost to the patient. | Free (NHS funded) | 60 minutes (fitting) | |
| Private Hearing Aids | A selection of private hearing aids from leading manufacturers, available in discreet styles including receiver-in-canal, completely-in-canal, and behind-the-ear options. Competitive pricing with aftercare included. | £495–£2,500+ per pair | 60 minutes (fitting) | |
| Ear Wax Removal | Professional ear wax removal by microsuction or irrigation, performed by a trained hearing care professional. Available at most branches, often on a walk-in or short-notice basis. | £45–£55 per ear | 20 minutes | |
| Home Visit Hearing Care | A full hearing test and hearing aid consultation conducted in your own home. Ideal for patients with mobility difficulties or those who prefer the comfort of their own environment. Available in many areas. | Free | 60 minutes |
Free Hearing Test
A comprehensive hearing assessment conducted by a qualified hearing care professional. Includes examination of the ears, pure tone audiometry, and a detailed discussion of results with recommendations. No obligation to purchase.
NHS Hearing Aids
NHSDigital behind-the-ear hearing aids provided free through the NHS where Scrivens holds a local contract. Includes fitting, follow-up care, batteries, and ongoing servicing at no cost to the patient.
Private Hearing Aids
A selection of private hearing aids from leading manufacturers, available in discreet styles including receiver-in-canal, completely-in-canal, and behind-the-ear options. Competitive pricing with aftercare included.
Ear Wax Removal
Professional ear wax removal by microsuction or irrigation, performed by a trained hearing care professional. Available at most branches, often on a walk-in or short-notice basis.
Home Visit Hearing Care
A full hearing test and hearing aid consultation conducted in your own home. Ideal for patients with mobility difficulties or those who prefer the comfort of their own environment. Available in many areas.
How to Book a Hearing Test at Scrivens
Follow these simple steps to book your next hearing test with Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care.
Book a free hearing test online, by phone, or by visiting your local Scrivens branch
Attend your appointment for a thorough hearing assessment
Discuss your results and options, including NHS and private hearing aids
Have your chosen hearing aids fitted and programmed by a professional
Attend follow-up appointments for fine-tuning and ongoing aftercare
Scrivens Pros & Cons
An honest look at the advantages and disadvantages of choosing Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care for your hearing care.
Advantages
- NHS hearing aids available at many locations
- Family-owned independent with over 85 years of heritage
- Free hearing tests and home visits available
- Competitive pricing on private hearing aids
Considerations
- Fewer locations than the largest national chains
- Store coverage is strongest in the Midlands and may be limited elsewhere
- Smaller range of premium hearing aid brands compared to specialists
Why Choose Scrivens?
Family-owned independent chain since 1938
NHS hearing aids available at many locations
Combined optical and hearing care under one roof
Strong Midlands heritage with nationwide coverage
Free hearing tests with no obligation
Home visits available for those unable to travel
NHS Hearing Tests at Scrivens
Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care offers NHS-funded hearing services for eligible patients. You may qualify for a free NHS hearing test and hearing aids through your GP. Check eligibility and book through hearingtest.co.uk.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scrivens
Common questions about hearing tests, services, and booking at Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care.
Does Scrivens offer NHS hearing aids?
Yes, Scrivens is an NHS-contracted hearing aid provider in several regions across the UK. Availability depends on local NHS commissioning arrangements. Contact your nearest branch to check.
Is the hearing test at Scrivens free?
Yes, Scrivens offers a free, no-obligation hearing test at all branches and through their home visit service.
Is Scrivens an independent company?
Yes, Scrivens has been family-owned since 1938, making it one of the UK's largest independent optical and hearing care chains.
Does Scrivens offer home visits for hearing tests?
Yes, Scrivens provides free home visits for hearing tests in many areas, ideal for customers who find it difficult to visit a branch.
Can I get both my eyes and hearing tested at Scrivens?
Yes, Scrivens offers both optical and hearing care services under one roof at most branches, making it convenient to address both needs in a single visit.
Find a Scrivens Near You
Enter your postcode to check availability and book a hearing test at your nearest Scrivens location.
Find Scrivens Near YouVisit Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care directly: www.scrivens.com